We’re a nation of dog lovers, with around one-in-three households including at least one four-legged friend – that’s around 13 million pups.
It makes them far the most popular pet in the UK (ahead of cats and fish) and they make for wonderful companions – scientifically proven to improve both our mental and physical health.
With more people choosing to join the army of dog lovers every week, there are 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds, so there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest addition.
You might also choose to rehome a dog looking for a new life from a charity like the Dogs Trust.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
And one thing you might like to consider is that different breeds are known for having different lifespans - although much will depend on the individual dog in question.
Here are the 15 breeds of dog that tend to live the longest lives.
13. Maltese
The happy-go-lucky Maltese is a breed that tends to live for 12-16 years. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
14. Miniature Schnauzer
Like the Poodle, the Schnauzer comes in a range of sizes, with the Miniature version tending to the live the longest. You can expect these wee bearded cuties to live for 12-15 years. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
15. Affenpinscher
If dogs were descended from monkeys then the delightful Affenpinscher would be the missing link - looking as much primate as canine. These hairy heroes live for around 12-15 years. Photo: Canva/Getty Images